Disney magic brought to life on stage

Disney magic brought to life on stage

13 December 2023

THE magic of Disney is about to come to life as St Patrick’s Grammar School prepares to go curtains up on its mesmerising production of the beloved classic, Beauty and the Beast. 

This timeless tale will captivate audiences of all ages with its wonderful set, dazzling performances, breath-taking costumes, and unforgettable music.

Directed by Siobhan O’Toole, who with musical director, Celeste McEvoy, brought Phantom of the Opera, Oliver, Holes and The Addams Family to the Red High stage over the past ten years, this production will showcase the immense talent and dedication of St Patrick’s Grammar School students. 

From the enchanted castle to the charming village, audiences will be transported into the magical world of Belle and the Beast.

“We are thrilled to bring this beloved story to the stage,” said Siobhan O’Toole. “Our students have poured their hearts into this production and we can’t wait to share the magic of ‘Beauty and the Beast’ with our community. 

“The show features a talented cast and crew who have worked tirelessly to bring this classic story to life.”

 This ‘tale as old as time’ tells the story of Belle (Emma Deegan), and her Beast (Aaron McElroy). 

Belle’s father, Maurice, will be performed by Oisin Kennedy, while the antagonist, Gaston, will be played by Conaire Laverty, and his loyal sidekick, LeFou, by Luke Morris. 

The Beast’s enchanted household will watch anxiously as Belle and the Beast grow to understand and befriend one another: Mrs Potts (Emily Hanvey), Lumiere (Brendan Morgan), Cogsworth (Shea McGrath), and Chip (Niall Murnin).

Mrs Noirin McArdle will play Madame de La Grande Bouche, the opera singer transformed into a wardrobe, while Babette will be played by Grace Smyth and Monsieur D’Arque by Sean Rafferty. 

The principal characters will be joined on stage by The Silly Girls and the Villagers.

The production will feature all of the spellbinding songs of Alan Menken, Howard Ashman and Tim Rice, including Belle, Gaston, Be Our Guest and, of course, Tale as Old as Time, which will be played by a live orchestra.

Having had a front row seat during the rehearsals, vice-principal Michelle Clancy said: “The cast and crew features over 100 students and staff, with students ranging from Year 8 to Year 14. 

“I have thoroughly enjoyed watching the show come together and it really highlights the importance of the arts in a holistic education.” 

She continued: “In an education sense, this show is about the journey, nurturing confidence, empathy, and resilience in our students. 

“It’s a platform for self-discovery and understanding, allowing students to step into different roles, explore diverse perspectives and learn the art of communication, collaboration, and problem-solving—skills that transcend the stage and become invaluable in all aspects of life.”

The doors will open at 6.30pm with the performance starting at 7pm this week from Thursday to Saturday.

Tickets for this special anniversary production are available for purchase at £7 from the school’s reception and there will be a small number of tickets available at the door.